Folk signs and holidays on May 23: Turtle Day and Earth Name Day

      On Saturday, May 23, 2026, Orthodox believers commemorate the Apostle Simon the Zealot, while in the folk tradition, they honor Mother Raw Earth — on this day, she should not be disturbed. We discuss traditions, prohibitions, and weather signs, as well as unusual holidays from around the world.

       Orthodox holiday

       On May 23, 2026, the Orthodox Church honors the memory of Saint Apostle Simon the Zealot, also known as the Canaanite. He was one of the twelve closest disciples of Jesus Christ. The nickname "Zealot" translates from Greek as "zealous" — this term was used for people who fervently followed God's law. According to church tradition, Simon was from Cana of Galilee. It was in his house that Jesus Christ performed his first miracle — turning water into wine when there was not enough food at a wedding. Struck by this miracle, Simon believed in the Messiah and left everything to follow him. After the descent of the Holy Spirit, the apostle went to preach Christianity in Judea, Egypt, Libya, and even reached Britain. Simon the Zealot met his martyr's end on the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus — according to tradition, he was sawn in half, which is why he is often depicted with this tool in icons.

       Additionally, on May 23, a celebration is held in honor of the Kiev-Brotherhood Icon of the Mother of God. This icon became famous in the 17th century when, during a plague, the Mother of God miraculously protected the Kiev Brotherhood Monastery.

       Name days on this day are celebrated by Vasily, Kirill, Simon, and Taisia.

       Day traditions

       In the folk calendar, May 23 is Simon's Day, which is also called the day of the name day of Mother Raw Earth. On this day, peasants treated the earth with special respect, considering it the name-day girl. There was a belief that the earth rests and should not be disturbed — neither plowed, nor dug, nor even stakes driven into it.

       One of the main traditions of the day was the gathering of medicinal herbs. It was believed that on May 23, plants acquire special magical power and help with many ailments. Herbs were gathered alone, wearing clean clothes and reciting a prayer. Some plants were prescribed to be picked not with bare hands, but with a clean handkerchief or towel, so that the miraculous power would not disappear.

       This day was also considered favorable for treasure hunting. Simon the Zealot was called the patron of treasure seekers, and those who believed in luck would go in search of treasures. According to belief, a good and honest person would surely find something, while a wicked one would only face misfortunes.

       Another tradition was divination with food and stones. Girls would gather all the food in the house and count it: an even number predicted an increase in the family. Others would place white and black stones under their pillows, and in the morning, without looking, would take one out: a white stone promised joy, while a black one foretold troubles.

       It was considered beneficial to walk barefoot in the field — this could strengthen health and absorb the earth's energy.

       What not to do

       On Simon's Day, there were several strict prohibitions.

       The main prohibition concerned the earth. It was forbidden to plow, dig, excavate pits, drive stakes, or insert any other objects into the soil. Those who violated the prohibition, according to beliefs, could lose their future harvest and bring misfortunes upon themselves.

       It was not recommended to make large purchases or spend money thoughtlessly. It was believed that unreasonable financial decisions on this day could lead to debts and financial difficulties for the entire year.

       Money should not be hidden — according to superstition, it could be forgotten or lost due to theft. Leaving an empty wallet was also not advisable, so that poverty would not linger.

       Laziness and keeping the house in disorder were forbidden. Chaos in the home, according to beliefs, would lead to troubles in life. It was also advised not to transplant houseplants — they might not take root and wither.

       One should not offend anyone or quarrel publicly — such actions attracted troubles and only exacerbated problems.

       Weather signs

       On May 23, peasants closely observed nature to predict the weather for the near future and determine planting dates.

       If catkins on birches began to burst, it was a sure sign that it was time to sow grain. To determine whether the soil had warmed enough for sowing wheat, there was a simple method: one had to take off their shoes and step barefoot into the furrow. If the foot did not feel cold — it was time to sow.

       Rain on this day promised a rainy and damp summer. If the rain was accompanied by wind — one should expect warming soon.

       Good weather was indicated by bees that flew cheerfully and quickly from early morning. If the cuckoo called until evening — warm days were ahead. And if large cumulus clouds stretched across the sky in the evening, the next day was expected to be clear and sunny.

       Birds singing before dawn, dandelions closing their flowers until noon, and moles scattering earth around their burrows warned of impending rain.

       Unusual holidays around the world

       In addition to folk and Orthodox traditions, May 23 is marked by several unofficial and international holidays worth knowing about.

       World Turtle Day. This ecological holiday was established in 2000 at the initiative of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals from Malibu, California. Its goal is to draw attention to the problem of declining populations of these ancient reptiles. Due to poaching, environmental pollution, and climate change, more than 60 percent of turtle species are at risk of extinction. On this day, animal rights activists build safe crossings for turtles under busy roads and strive to grant protective status to places where they lay eggs.

       International Day of Sport Wrestling. This holiday was established in 2013 at the initiative of United World Wrestling. The date was chosen deliberately: it was on May 23, 1904, that the first World Wrestling Championship took place in Vienna.

       Day of Caramels. An unofficial sweet holiday for lovers of chewy candy. On this day, one can indulge in their favorite childhood candy or even make caramels themselves.

       Day of Chestnut Candles. A beautiful unofficial holiday dedicated to the blooming of chestnuts. At the end of May, trees are covered with candle-like inflorescences, and this day reminds us of the importance of noticing the beauty of nature around us.

       Day of Gratitude to the Bicycle. Another unofficial holiday for lovers of eco-friendly transport. On this day, one can thank their two-wheeled friend for faithful service.

       Day "Eat Something Healthy." An unofficial holiday calling attention to healthy eating. A great reason to add fruits, vegetables, or a healthy salad to the diet.

      Diana Salikhzanova